Flaky hand-grabbed pancakes with buttery, layered dough are a popular street food breakfast. A family-friendly, fresh recipe that's easy to customize.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring with chopsticks until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly oiled surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp towel and rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a thin rectangle (about ⅛-inch thick). Evenly spread 1 tbsp softened butter and scatter green onions over each rectangle.
Roll up each rectangle tightly, coil into a spiral shape, and gently flatten. This layering step is crucial for flakes—layering controls texture.
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add about 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Cook pancakes one at a time for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently and flipping until golden and crisp. Adjust heat if browning too quickly. Drain briefly on a rack before serving warm.